The state of Florida requires that children be five years old on or before September 1 to enroll in public kindergarten. Brentwood will consider early enrollment on a per case basis.

Since we maintain low student/teacher ratios, and individualize our teaching, bright, curious students love Brentwood. Our hands-on philosophy means that in addition to advanced skill work they will go places, plan and create exhibitions, participate in science fairs, plays and events, enjoy guest speakers, and more. Most importantly they will work with teachers who respect their pace and style. Although we would not label any child, many "gifted" children thrive at Brentwood.

This term covers a wide range of learning needs but over the years we have helped many students relax, focus on what makes learning difficult, and then with an individually designed program move forward with skill acquisition, organizational skills, and new confidence.

At the end of each year, starting with first grade, we administer the Iowa Test of Basic Skills. Many believe this to be the standard of achievement tests. We do not teach the test, fret over it, pressure our students and teachers to perform on it, or otherwise pervert the true intention of the use of this kind of a test. Brentwood students typically average over a year above local and national norms.

We call it PLAYGROUP, and children may attend as early as 7:30 a.m. and as late as 5:30 p.m. There is an hourly charge, and we keep track of your use so you may pay monthly. You may use PLAYGROUP regularly or spontaneously, meaning no costly contracts or promises.

EXPLORER CLASSES are offered in 6 to 8 week blocks, one day per week after school, changing four times per year. Classes have included cooking, science, computer, fencing, art, tennis, bicycle safety, karaoke, basketball, and more.

Our preschool classes range in size from 15 to 22 students with two full time teachers per class. From Kindergarten through Grade 5 the maximum number is 26 students with two teachers per class.

Every class, every day, will study Reading, Writing, Language Arts, Math, Science and Social Studies in ways appropriate to their ages. In addition to this core curriculum, specialists teach Computer Studies, Spanish, Art, Music, Physical Education, and Library Skills.

Brentwood is blessed with a stable, experienced staff and we experience little turnover (or turmoil, for that matter). Bob and Sue Schackow, school directors, have been at Brentwood for 28 years, while, 8, 10, 12 years and more are common among staff.

You are welcome anytime, for any reason. All visitors should come through the office. Volunteer opportunities vary from helping as needed (field trips, events) or putting together a regular schedule that works for you. Volunteering is never required.

Many schools have begun to advocate this aspect of the learning experience in the 38 years that Brentwood has held it as a central idea of who we are.

In order to be an excited, life-long, self-motivated learner, and do this in the context of "The Golden Rule", a child must understand the concept of being responsible. At Brentwood, from the youngest ages, children are guided to be mindful of their actions, proud of their actions, and accountable for their actions.

Charter schools are a fairly new concept that allows a private owner (who isn't necessarily an educator) to use public funding to operate a school. In our opinion they are not equivalent to a private school education. Some differences are:

1. They are typically small, 30 to 60 students meaning a restricted social circle.
2. They are often highly specialized meaning less social and intellectual diversity.
3. Funding is often stretched thin.
4. Facilities and materials are typically smaller, borrowed, leased, etc. A charter school may provide your child with an excellent education.